Bristol Pledges To Aid Armed Forces And Their Families

The Mayor of Bristol, George Ferguson, is first to sign the Covenant, watched by the Lord-Lieutenant, Mary Prior MBE, and the Lord Mayor, Cllr Alastair Watson (right).

Bristol City Council has signed an Armed Forces Community Covenant to ensure that Bristol-based members of the Armed Forces – Regulars, Reservists, veterans and their families –have access to the services they need.

The aim is to ensure they can live and fully participate in their local community.

A bugler from 1RIFLES salutes as the Armed Forces flag is hoisted outside Bristol’s City Hall.

It recognises that armed services personnel, along with their partners and children, sometimes have special requirements owing to the nature of the military’s work. It also acknowledges that, for some, the transition to civilian life can be difficult after the structured nature of a military career.

The first signature on the Covenant was that of Bristol’s elected Mayor, George Ferguson, who said: “It is important that Bristol recognises the contribution of those who have served with the Royal Navy, the Army or RAF and we do everything we can to meet their or their families’ need for schooling, health and housing.

Outside Bristol’s City Hall on day of Armed Forces Community Covenant signing.